In Part 2 of our list of travel destination ideas, we explore 3 slower-paced countries and their sweet spots worth checking out.
1. Brisbane / Gold Coast
Credit: Flickr
While many would likely favour other busier Aussie cities like Sydney and Melbourne, what stands out about Brisbane for us is its easygoing pace, and proximity to the sandy beaches of Gold Coast – making a week long trip here feel like you’re getting two separate experiences for the price of one. For city kids, you’ll feel right at home in Brisbane, with shopping malls and pop-up flea markets aplenty. Make sure to spend a day cafe-hopping too, with Australia’s cafe culture quickly becoming a mainstay and perfect for your Instagram feed goals.
Once you’ve had your fill of what Brisbane has to offer and ready to head off for new adventures, drive (or take a bus) approximately two hours south towards Gold Coast’s sun, sea and sand. Soak up an afternoon lazing on the beach to get that Aussie tan or take up the challenge of learning surfing from the best right at Surfers Paradise – the choice is up to you. Not to forget, Gold Coast is also host to FOUR main amusement parks – Movie World, Dream World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild (although we recommend just visiting two) for a fun-filled couple of days laughing and screaming your heart out.
2. Nepal
Credit: IlyaZal, Flickr
If you and your friends want to opt for the road literally less travelled and do some soul-searching, immerse yourself in The Himalayas for a week with an unconventional visit to Nepal. Get away from the fast-paced lifestyle of living in the busy city and free your mind the moment you disembark onto the sacred land. You’ll be greeted with stunning views arriving at Kathmandu, the country’s capital, that will instantly ease your mind from any unwanted troubles.
Spend a few days to take in the deep history of the many Buddhist and Hindu temples around the Panauti area and the Newari Village, the latter of which is located at the top of a hill. If you’re up for living like a local, spend a day in the life of one at Bungamati and also don’t forget to try a brew at one of the old school coffee shops! With everything Nepal has to offer, chances are you’ll even learn a thing or two you never discovered before about yourself – and that’s the real reward of any trip.
3. Vietnam
Credit: Lonely Planet
Brimming with an undeniable energy and an aura of serenity, Vietnam is fast becoming one of the top destinations for travelers. Book a place to stay near Ben Thanh market, and amid the coffee beans and fruit stalls, you’ll find yourself pleasantly lost in the organised mess. At night, take a walk to Bui Vien – dubbed the “backpacker’s area” – and sit on tiny, roadside stools to have a drink while making friends with the affable locals and fellow tourists.
Tasting local cuisine is a definite must in any country, and there’s no better way in doing so than trying pho at Pho Le restaurant or locally brewed coffee at Ben Coffee House. But perhaps the highlight of where to really let your tastebuds feel at home would be at Cuc Gach Quan Restaurant. After navigating your way through the quirky interior of this eatery, don’t be alarmed if you notice you’re having scrumptious portions of Vietnamese food on chipped plates – it’s all part of the concept. Hey, even Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have dined here and loved it!
Featured Image: Nepal (via Pinterest)
Check out Part 1 of our list of travel destinations and itinerary ideas here. Where do you plan to venture to for a week-long trip? Or know some of the hidden secrets of the countries we mentioned? Share them with us in the comments below!
